Office of the Press Ombudsman

The Office of the Press Ombudsman is part of a new system of independent regulation for the printed media in Ireland. Our aim is to provide the public with a quick, fair and free method of resolving any complaints they may have in relation to newspapers and magazines published in Ireland that are members of the Press Council of Ireland.

You can complain about any article you see in a member newspaper or magazine/periodical if you think that it breaches the Code of Practice for Newspapers and Periodicals and which personally affects you. However, if the article concerned refers to a particular individual or individuals, you have to get their written consent for your complaint.

You can also complain about the behaviour of a journalist if you feel that this behaviour involves a breach of the Code.

The Office of the Press Ombudsman will, in the first instance, attempt to resolve the matter by making direct contact with the editor of the publication concerned. It will outline the complaint to the publication and seek to resolve the mater by a process of conciliation. If conciliation is not possible, the Press Ombudsman will examine the case and make a decision. He may refer significant or complex cases to the Press Council of Ireland.

It does not cost anything to complain to our office.

All information in relation to a complaint must remain confidential until all aspects of the complaints and appeals process are completed.